Government helps Parkwood Farm convert to cage-free eggs

I am pleased to announce that the ACT Labor Government has reached agreement for Parkwood Farm to convert to cage-free eggs.

The Government has reached the agreement with Pace Farm, which operates the Parkwood Farm in west Belconnen. Parkwood Farm is the only commercial egg production facility in the ACT.

The Government has agreed to purchase, for $7.5 million, a 24-hectare subdivision of Parkwood Farm that is surplus to that business's requirements, and rezone and sell the land for industrial use. This will provide further employment opportunities in west Belconnen.

The purchase will be made on the condition that Parkwood Farm be converted from cage egg to barn egg production.

The Government and Pace Farm have been negotiating for over a year about the conversion to alternative egg production methods.

Today's agreement is a positive outcome for animal welfare. The agreement also ensures the long-term security of Parkwood Farm and the jobs it provides for local workers.